February 3, 2017 Friday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time-A

Hebrews 13:1-8

Psalm 27

Mark 6:14-29

“The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.”  Hebrews 13:6

“It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”  Mark 6:18

Lord, John had fulfilled his role well.  He prepared the people for you and the beginning of your ministry to bring salvation to all.  He sought no fame or credit while he pointed to you.  He knew what he was doing when he confronted the evil King Herod about his illicit marriage.  He knew the consequences of taking on and opposing a King.  With courage, he did what was right despite the danger.  We have a saying that goes: “Evil triumphs when good people do nothing.”  Lord, I find it a lot easier to “mind my own business” or to remain silent when things are not right.  Human relationships can be complicated and it’s difficult to know what to do or say to someone not choosing the good or right path.  Lord, be my helper today to choose rightly the best response to evil.  May your Spirit’s gifts of fortitude and courage remove my hesitation and fear.  Always make charity and love, and not judgement, my motives when looking out for my neighbor.   Amen